The most notable issue was the proposed booster pumping station intended to address low water pressure and flow in certain areas of Little Falls. A representative from New Jersey American Water, along with legal and engineering professionals, presented the project details to the board. The facility, proposed to be located on Long Hill Road, aims to enhance the water supply system by increasing flow and pressure during peak demand periods. It will include a combination of four pumps—two for domestic water demands and two for firefighting, each equipped with variable frequency drives to adjust flow rates. The facility will be unmanned, monitored remotely, and avoid chemical use since it will not treat water.

Despite these assurances, residents voiced several concerns. They questioned the necessity of the facility’s size and potential noise impacts, particularly regarding the generator. The facility’s design includes a decorative seven-foot fence and landscaping intended to blend with the neighborhood aesthetics, though some residents remained skeptical about the visual impact.

The proposed booster station requires a variance due to the non-conforming lot size and the need for a seven-foot high fence, exceeding typical height restrictions. The facility’s strategic location was defended by the applicant as critical for maintaining water pressure and supporting infrastructure, especially during high demand periods. The timeline for construction, if approved, is projected to begin in 2027, with operational readiness by the end of 2028.

Residents adjacent to the proposed site expressed concerns about noise, lighting, and the potential for construction vibrations, recalling past experiences with nearby projects. Questions were raised about the necessity of an environmental study and the long-term impact on property values. The board assured that measures would be in place to mitigate noise and environmental impacts while allowing for further community engagement throughout the project’s planning stages.

In another discussion, the Pake Valley High School Board of Education presented plans for extending protective netting along its softball fields. This courtesy presentation, which did not require a vote, aimed to inform the planning board about the school’s intentions to address foul balls entering neighboring properties. The school plans to build a 60-foot netting extension over the existing 25-foot fence, alongside planting trees to provide additional protection and enhance the area’s appearance. There was no immediate opposition from the board, although a previous incident involving the removal of trees without adequate communication was referenced.

The meeting also covered a proposal by Martino Enterprises regarding a split-zoned area, addressing challenges posed by mixed residential and industrial zoning. The application sought to introduce residential units while maintaining commercial operations, with the board urging further architectural enhancements and community feedback to refine the plans.